Why Microsoft Dynamics partners should join the CSP Program

Recently, we hosted a webinar that brought together Microsoft Dynamics CRM partners across North America. To get feedback from attendees, we asked the audience a simple question: Are you familiar with Microsoft's Cloud Solution Provider (CSP) program?

The result was quite astonishing. More than 85% of attendees (seasoned Dynamics CRM partners) either had no idea what the CSP was or were fuzzy about the subject.

When we questioned partners who did know about the CSP program, most told us they were not interested in it.  "Why resell licenses when I can make more money by focusing on my service business?"

This feedback made us realize we had to explain what the CSP was and the benefits of the program. Hopefully, by the end of this article you will understand the benefits of the CSP program in its various forms and make it a priority for your business.

What Exactly is the CSP Program?

The CSP, or Cloud Solution Provider program, is an initiative set up by Microsoft to allow partners to continue selling their most important cloud business and productivity solutions. The CSP lets you set your own prices and profit margins for reselling products like Office 365, Dynamics 365 and Azure. The CSP allows you to sell any combination of these products as well as add your own products to the mix.

In other words, the CSP is a way for partners to resell Microsoft products by working with Microsoft directly, or going through a trusted partner that is already a member of the CSP program. The program's popularity is rapidly growing. According to RCP mag, there are now 83% more partners transacting through the CSP program compared to last year.